First Baby Bump Picture and Running thus Far

I am so excited about this new spot on the blog. I love learning new things (unless it has to do with grammar or how sugar is bad for you) and I knew NOTHING about exercise and pregnancy before and now I can’t stop reading everything in the world about it.

First, a few people have wanted to see a baby pump. I know it looks like I just ate a big meal but I promise there is a little baby in there:)

From my own observations thus far (because clearly I am an expert):

1. Running is harder.

2. Running is more rewarding.

These two things kind of contradict each other but they are true for me. Before the thought that I could possibly be pregnant entered my mind, my runs started getting a lot harder. I remember going on a 14 miler with SR, Sarah and Pam and wondering what in the world my problem was because I was barely holding onto the pace for dear life. Breathing was harder, I was a lot more tired and the chaffing in every area of my body started early on.

Why is running/exercise more rewarding now than it used to be for me? There are a few reasons for this.

1. Doing something hard makes you feel even better about yourself. Knowing that I could easily just make an excuse that I am pregnant and therefore belong on the couch would be easy. After teaching a spin class at 6 a.m. or going to yoga at night when I am already tired makes me realize I am the bomb.com for doing something that is difficult.

2. I know that it is incredibly good for my baby, what could be more rewarding than doing something you know will help your baby to be healthier?

3. Let’s be honest here okay. As different areas are growing on my body and things are changing and acne has invaded the weirdest places, I just don’t feel as sexy. When I get a good workout in that day then my confidence raises and I realize how amazing my body is rather than focusing on the negative.

4. My mood is better and I don’t freak out at Billy for eating the last bowl of granola (okay, I am still a little mad about that).

5. I get to run purely for enjoyment now. There is no stress related to a goal pace or a marathon pr. I am continuing to do it because I love that feeling after a run.

A main focus that I have on this section of the blog is to encourage pregnant women to exercise (if you were already doing it before you got pregnant and after talking to your doctor about it). Yes, it is hard but isn’t that one of the reasons we are runners….we like to challenge ourselves and we REALLY like doing something that we know is good for us!

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Why has exercising been rewarding for you lately?

When you were pregnant (or if you are now) what was your favorite type of exercise?

142 comments

I was pregnant last year and had a baby girl (which the entire 40-weeks I thought I was having a baby boy) last June. Running was my favorite exercise. When we first decided to have a baby, I read a ton of books (including this book: Running and Pregnancy (highly recommend it – http://www.amazon.com/Runners-World-Guide-Running-Pregnancy/dp/1579547478). Anyway, I decided to go in and see my OB/GYN of 11+ years to just get the check-up and talk about pregnancy. When I told her I was still running and wanted to run, she completely frowned upon it. She told me she didn’t want me running while I was pregnant. I ran home to cry my eyes out to my husband and then I decided that it was time to research other OB/GYNs. I emailed a bunch of my running friends to see who they went to, and found a match. I went in to interview her — she was amazing. Ran Boston 5 months pregnant and a lot of the things she told me were exactly what was written in the book. (i.e. You don’t have to keep your heart rate at 140, etc.). So I knew she was a keeper. And now, I joined her running group and met some amazing friends. ;o)

Also, I loved racing while I was pregnant because it didn’t matter how slow I ran. My one girlfriend who I ran w/ while she was pregnant is very competitive, so to her, she didn’t want to have a bad time on her record. Different views… I guess. To me, it was an achievement.

WHAT!?!? You thought you were having a girl and had a boy instead. OH MY GOODNESS….thank you so much for the book recommendation. I appreciate it so much and I can’t wait to read it. Boston @ 5 months pregnant, WOW! That is so cool you joined her group. I am the same as you and I am just loving running slow when I race:) Thank you so much for your comment!

That was kind of confusing. We didn’t find out the sex of our baby. We wanted it to be a surprise. Don’t get me wrong, I was so tempted at each doctor’s appt. to find out the sex — sneak into my file, yada yada yada. But I’m glad we waited. It worked out perfect because nobody asked us what we were naming the baby — Usually people would say, “Oh, what are you having?” And my response would be, “It’s a surprise!” And they would just be shocked to even ask if we came up with any names.

But yeah, everyone thought I was having a baby boy, except my husband. He had a dream he was walking down our hallway rocking a baby girl.

Running pregnant is the best!!! My back hardly hurt, I slept better, I was always in a great mood and I seriously felt like labor was easy. So, with that said, keep on running (just as long as you can, that is!). ;o)

Yay Yay Yay! Love your little baby bump!
For me, exercise has been rewarding to me because I love seeing improvement and I’ve been seeing a lot of improvement lately, also it’s nice that my body craves exercise. Sometimes my legs itch to run, and my back wants to be stretched out by yoga, it’s great! :D

Last workout that challenged me? Uhm running! My calves always like to burn, and that’s challenging for me to deal with!

These are going to be my FAVORITE posts, I just know it :D
Your bump is just too stinkin’ cute!!!!! Love that your first post here was about exercise during pregnancy- it was perfect. I loved reading it! & I can’t wait for more!!!

Cindy

I am so excited to follow your pregnancy!! I hope to have babies soon and have been soo stressed about how to maintain my running and be pregnant! My mother is soo against it and she even blames running for the reason why I haven’t gotten pregnant yet! lol!
I look foward to reading your updates!

Cindy, thank you so so much for your comment. DON’T STRESS about maintaining your running while pregnant (ha…I am only 4 months so I have no idea what I am talking about) but just know you will slow down but you can still run and enjoy it.

Elizabeth

amen amen amen. Like I said previously, I ran the day before my #1 child was born. I couldn’t do it that long with #2 and #3–pelvis didn’t feel right–but I exercised HARD with all three. It was great. I monitored my heart rate always and stayed in the safe zone. I eliptisized while in labor. It was great. It made all three deliveries very very easy–I did natural–it does hurt–but no tearing, etc. Towards the end I did lots of stretching, yoga to get the pelvic muscles ready.

I was SO hungry with all three pregnancies, gained 25 lbs each time and quickly–1 week–after birth had the weight off. I nursed all three. I believe in that. I should work for La Leche! I also by occupation am a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, so if you need anything or have questions just holler. Sometimes it is hard to find information on working out, running and pregnancy. Love you, so happy for you three-E

That is SO cool that you ran the day before you delivered, I want to be just like you! You eliptisized while in labor..wow! Did it help you bounce back to running fast after you had your kids? Oh girl, I am totally going to ask you a million questions…hope that is it okay!

Elizabeth

Heather S

Love it! I have a 2 month old(as of yesterday) and it goes so fast! Enjoy every second of pregnancy..I tried even though it was super hard when I puked all day for 3 solid months! Yay for baby girls haha congrats and I can’t wait to keep up with your journey!

I was hoping you’d post one soon! I love little pregg bellies! SO cute!

I love that you will continue to exercise during your pregnancy…I’m far off from having a baby, but when I do I plan on continuing (as long as Dr. approves) because I still need to make sure I’m staying healthy and fit!

Exercising has been rewarding because I’ve upped my base millage and I am at a point where my body is (mostly) cooperating so I am loving my runs! I’ve also increased my bodypump weight, which makes me feel awesome!

Last night’s bodypump was pretty challenging. I just started pole dancing on tuesday and it def works all of my upperbody muscles in a different way than pump does, so I’m experiencing some intense soreness (that’s also awesome!). I did have to decrease my weight a tiny bit for my arms, but I felt good that I didn’t take a ‘bathroom’ break during those tracks and pushed on!

I ran up until I was 7 months and then I took up swimming and it was awesome. To be honest, it was really hard for me to watch the mileage and the paces become slower and slower. But when I started swimming, I found that I could keep up the same distances and paces as I swam before I got pregnant. So I felt like I was getting an awesome workout. So I swam right up until the day before I had my little girl. And I had her in July so that cool pool felt amazing….not to mention I didn’t feel nearly as huge in the water!

That is so good to know about swimming, thanks Christy! I love slowing down but at the same time I have a need for speed to so I might have to try out swimming again! You swam the day before you had your daughter, girl that is so awesome!

Leslie

HURRAY! I have been anxiously checking your blog for the 1st official bump picture, you are rocking it Janae. So.Adorable.

My husband and I have yet to get pregnant but I definitely can understand how exercising in general, let alone running, gives you an amazing sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Plus, you are so right, it’s so great for your baby, I have literally heard nothing contradictory to that. Plus, Charlotte runs pregnant in Sex and the City, so it’s bound to be true, right? :) :)

After quitting my (horrible) nannying job last month, I’ve had lots of free time to go to the gym! But I have to take the classes because otherwise I won’t get a good, full-body workout in. I LOVE the fast pace and music in my classes :)

What a cute little baby bump! Make sure you take regular pictures of your bump so we can see the progession please! :)

On Monday, I did SIXTY burpees as part of my workout. It sucked. It was so hard, especially at the end. But when I finished, I was like – DANG, I’m strong! I just did sixty burpees (with a full pushup)! Love that rewarding feeling.

Michelle

Congrats on your pregnancy! I was so excited to see your announcement. I am expecting too – due on 9/23 – so I am really looking forward to your pregnancy related posts! I took a few weeks off from working out because I was so exhausted, but I forced myself to go back to the gym this week and feel so much better!

WAIT A SECOND…we are due a day apart?!?! This just made my day! Do you have a bump yet or is it just me and I should lay off the donuts ha. SO glad you are back to the gym and it is making you feel better.

Michelle

Are you due in Sept or Aug? That would be so funny if we are due a day apart but I think you are a few weeks ahead of me. I’m almost 12 weeks and have a little bump but it probably has more to due with how much I have been eating!

hey! I have been following your blog for a while. I used to be a more ‘serious’ runner and ran though college on the team, than some marathons after. I have calmed down a bit as life got a bit busier (I’m 28 now) but still love the feeling of going out for a run. But I am soooooooo EXCITED that you are pregnant because I am 8 weeks along myself. Your blog has been a motivation tool in the past and already is even more so now that I know you are pregnant too!

Did you find that your symptoms were less strong and easier to handle on days you ran/exercised? I was so nauseous and tired the last few weeks that I slacked on the exercise. But the last week or so I have tried harder to get it in and I feel so much better! The nausea isn’t so bad and I have more energy not less. Love it!

I am so excited for you and Billy :) and I cant wait to follow your pregnancy journey along and hear some great tips about nutrition/exercise while pregnant. Congrats!

TESSA!!!! AHHHHH CONGRATULATIONS!! THIS IS SO EXCITING!!! We are going to have to talk all about our pregnancies together. Oh my goodness, I felt so much better AS I was exercising and for about an hour after I finished but then it went back to feeling awful. It definitely helped with my fatigue! Get excited for the second trimester….I feel like myself again. Thanks again and I am so excited for you!

haha thanks :) Yes, as I write this now a few hours later I am back to feeling pretty blah, its a bit of a roller coster these pregnancy symptoms. I am super excited for the second trimester, so glad you are feeling more energetic! Thanks for the kind words!

Omg you are the cutest preggo ever! That’s awesome that you are still running. I hope to run through my pregnancy (when that happens.. not yet!) My mom swam the whole time she was preggers with me and always jokes that that’s why I’m such a fish. She said people wouldn’t even know she was pregnant until she got out of the pool and then they’d be like “WHOA!” Haha. Praying for a healthy baby and pregnancy! You look so beautiful!

Cute little bump. :) Running was my favorite exercise when I was pregnant until about 29 weeks. Then I liked the elliptical. I remember I would always watch the Baby Stories on TLC while I was doing elliptical at the gym. :)

Your bump is so cute!! You and Billy are going to make fantastic parents. Your baby is very lucky. :)
I loved running while pregnant, but you’re right, it’s so much harder and more rewarding at the same time. I had to stop at 21 weeks because the round ligament pain was intense and I have a pretty high tolerance for pain and being uncomfortable. It would hurt both during and after my runs and would sometimes take 24 – 48 hours to go away, during which time I’d waddle and shuffle around like a penguin. Now I vary my workouts using the elliptical, incline walking on the treadmill, strength training and yoga five days a week to stay in shape and “train” for deliver. I miss the intensity I once put into workouts, but I’m doing what I can and I’m happy with it. I’ll be back to running after the baby’s born and have signed up for 2 half marathons so far and am really looking forward to it.

you look so cute! i love it. and you ARE the bomb.com. i was a lazy pregnant person. i was running regularly before, and i was positive i was going to keep doing it throughout my pregnancy. and then i went on one run one morning when i felt crappy and like i was going to die the whole time. that was the beginning of being sick. then i was sick for 13ish weeks, and so i didn’t go at all. then by week 13 i felt like i was out of shape and couldn’t possibly do it while pregnant, so i just didn’t do it. so yes. you are amazing! i am so impressed!

I have a lot more to say on the subject but didn’t want to gum up your comments section. :) Or seem as if I was bragging. However, I was BAD A the summer after my son was born (1/29) at 5K. PRs all over the place. So there’s a lot to look forward to after if you are consistent and smart during!

I have been power walking. No, it isn’t running or anything fancy but it works for me. That was about all I did pre pregnancy so I didn’t think starting something more hard core now that I am pregnant was a good idea. Once I deliver and recover (8 weeks to go!) then I hope to build up a new and improved fitness routine!

Awwww I love this! And look at that bump. I have happy chills! So excited for you Janae.

I worked out during all of my pregnancies. I was high risk with my daughter so I just wore a heart rate monitor and took it easy. I felt so good and my recovery afterwards was a breeze (even with a c-section with my girl). I love that you are promoting exercise during pregnancy.

Sarah Elizabeth

Darcee

love the post even though i’m not pregnant anymore!!! I so wish I could have ran while pregnant, but due to doc’s orders cause of a weird placenta thing I had going on, I couldn’t. To be honest up until 25 weeks when all I wanted to do was barf I probably wouldn’t have wanted to run much anyways, but the freedom to have done it if I wanted would have been nice. The first time I got to run after having Pax was AMAZING and also so HARD! I thought I was going to have a heart attack and it felt so weird. More things were bouncing then ever had in my life before ;) I did not like that! Now I have to get in my workout while he naps just to stay sane and to have ME time! I love that it’s getting nice outside and that I have a half marathon to train for and to motivate me to run run run! Exercising is just amazing and so are you!!! I miss you. Oh and your baby bump is freaking ADORABLE!!! You will be the cutest pregnant lady ever!

AHH Janae I am still smiling like a dork every time I think about you being a momma! Your bump is beyond adorable, as expected :-) Of course if Charlotte in SATC ran during her pregnancy, then it’s the thing to do! haha I saw that comment up there and was like, okay awesome I’m not the only one thinking that! Congrats again! <3

PS- I am secretly (not so secretly) hoping and praying you and BIlly move to NYC for his law school.. helllllo, we will go running together with your baby jogging stroller! :-)

Mary

I ran till 6 and a half months then walked then waddled (3 miles the day I went into labor)
I also loved yoga.
I am glad you are adding a tab about pregnancy and exercise. It was hard for me to find info on it when I was looking.
Congratulations again!!!!!

When I was pregnant, I didn’t run. But each time I walked into the gym, I stared at the treadmills longingly….probably explains all the accusations that I was a creeper! J/K But I still got my sweat on during Spin classes and pump classes. I was able to exercise up until a day before I exercised…funny story…I should blog about it sometime.

And if you move to NYC, then you guys can be friends with my sister and her hubby! (They’re expecting too!)

Today was VERY challenging … it was only a 3 mile run but I just did not want to run, but I didn’t and I longed to feel how I feel after I actually made it out. I am still feeling under the weather … but I did it! The pace terrible … but I did it … I am happy …

… You look adorable of course … enjoy … my girls are my everything!

Katheryn

I’m pregnant with #3 and for all three pregnancies continued all the same things I did before. Cardio kick boxing, weight training, yoga, elliptical, and of course running. I did have to slow down and take things a bit lighter though. Like you it was and is always such a great feeling to know that I’m doing something good for both me and my baby. I ran a half marathon during pregnancy #2 and #3, and I really felt awesome about that. Hey, you can say that too!

Lara

You look so cute!! I’m sure there’s plenty of baby talk to come, but I want more info! I know you weren’t necessarily planning it (and I assume not on the pill?), but did you have to gain weight to get pregnant? I know you had lost your period for a while too, so that’s great that you didn’t have infertility problems! I’m not looking to get pregnant anytime soon but I always think I’m going to have to gain weight and cut way down on exercise just because I haven’t always had regular periods and marathon training usually doesn’t help. But it seems like you didn’t have to! Maybe you’re just super fertile :P

I’m 18 weeks pregnant and discovered this week that I can’t run more than a mile without having to pee! As a result I have to switch up my lunchtime route due to the lack of available space to pee – there were a couple of close calls this week :) I love just listening to my body while I run now and believe me I am a heck of a lot slower but in the grand scheme of things it’s only a short amount of time.

Jen

Cutest bump ever! This morning, the lady on the ellipital next to me was very pregnant. I really wanted to give her a high five! No babies here (getting married this summer!), but I am so excited for this section of your blog! After watching a few friends go through their pregnancies (some exercising, some not), I know that I definitely want to continue running and working out when that time comes. In a few years I’ll be stalking this section again. You’re the greatest! :)

Kara

As my dad would say, I Tae-Boed my way through my pregnancy with my second child. He swore my son was going to come out doing a round kick!! Exercising did make delivery so much easier. When I went in the hospital, I was in labor, but my water hadn’t broke. After breaking my water, the doctor told me he was going to go lay down because I would be a few hours yet. One contraction later and I told my husband that if he didn’t go get the doctor I would and after two pushes I had a baby! Needless to say the doctor never got his nap!!

Angela

You’re so cute! Both of my cousins are due this summer so I love looking at everyone’s little baby bumps! No kids for a while for me though, the whole living and working in Japan thing means that life isn’t settled enough to bring another into the world just yet.

The best workout I’ve had recently was two days of deep powder, off piste skiing with a group of friends. Northern Japan is known for its amazing powder and we went six hours through knee and thigh deep snow, navigating rocks, trees and lift lines. I was sore and exhausted but it’s the most rewarding experience: getting to the bottom of the mountain and looking back up at your tracks in the snow. Best feeling ever, so good, we’re headed out again this weekend!

Julie

Nicole

Yay, Yay, Yay! You look so cute! I worked out until I had my son (at 27 weeks, I developed severe preeclampsia). I’m so glad that I did because it really helped me handle things once he was born, both physically and emotionally. He is 3 months now and just came home and doing well! I’m really excited to follow you on this new journey and am looking forward to these posts! Love!!!

Marie

Awe, you look so beautiful! Love the baby bump and can’t wait for it to grow. ;) So excited for you guys! My pregnancy with twins was pretty rough and I was told to stop all activity pretty early on, but I enjoyed yoga for a bit before that. ;) I remember thinking afterward that I would never take for granted the ability to use the stairs or just to jump.

Carrie B

Janae, I love this!!!! And I love your lil bump! I am so excited that you get to run and workout while youre pregnant–I hope I can be as active as you are when i have a lil bump one day! :) You give me hope about being preggo…I have even been sending some of your posts to Ben…hope it’s not freaking him out! :)

Megan D

That is the smallest, cutest bump ever! I am so impressed with your mad running skills. I ran during my pregnancies, but never as far or as much as you. It was usually 3-4 miles 3x a week. It was crazy how soon I had to start slowing things down. My doc was great and told me I didn’t have to wear a HRM or that I had to stop running. He said as long as I listened to my body, I would know how much and how fast I could run (I do think that is different for each person). But he was right – our bodies are amazing and will let us know if we listen. For me, I had to stop at 29 weeks because it was just too darn uncomfortable. But I still exercised until the day they were both born. I do think it helped the labor too – I went natural and you have to have some endurance and be mentally tough (the latter, runners are great at. lol).

Getting back into running after was a different story. My mind was ready, my legs and lungs were ready, but when I ran it was so. darn. slow. It was like I was starting all over again. But it came back fast and I think I loved it even more after our brief departure ;)

I can’t believe that Billy eating all your granola! I actually just made a huge batch this morning. My house smelled a-mazing! I should save you a jar and send and/or give it to you. For realsies!

People seriously thought I was crazy for working out as much as I when I was pregnant – I felt like I constantly had to defend myself (I did a lot of spin – running didn’t agree with me – I’m too short waisted)! Not only was it great for me but I swear it made my kids calmer babies. So keep at it girl — there are only advantages!!

I was WAY too sick my first trimester to exercise much but once it subsided (at 20 weeks …eek) I got back to the gym asap. I didn’t feel comfortable jumping back into running since I hadn’t so I stuck with elliptical intervals and A LOT of incline walking. I guess there was some jogging in there too. The maternity support belts get really helpful the further along you get so you can keep exercising “comfortably”. :)

I just ate dinner and am officially more pregnant than your gorgeous self in that photo.

I’m glad you get to experience running without training. That’s my favorite kind of running. Also, I have a q: would you be interested in a pretty birthing gown? My good friend is the head of LaborLooks and could probably hook you up…

I ran/walked/ and did Jillian Michaels Power Sculpting video while pregnant and COMPLETELY believe that is why my pregnancy went so well. I did a lot of weight training too because I heard that can help labor. I never threw up, but I did feel nauseous in the morning but I think I felt good because I kept myself busy until about 5pm, that’s when I went to bed haha I was soooo tired the first trimester. I too, taught 10th grade health during my pregnancy, the students asked so many questions! haha I bet you get that too. Keep it up and you will be so glad that you stayed active. I gained about 25 pounds and it was easy to lose especially if you choose to nurse!

Congrats on your pregnancy!! I am so excited for you! Babies are such a blessing…I just met my nephew last weekend and am amazed by how much I love him already! Can’t wait to read all about your journey!

Joey

Alice

Hi Janae!
I’ve been reading your blog since months, but this is my 1rst comment! So I’m à french reader and I feel like a friend of me, here in France, would be waiting for a baby! Just wanted to tell that I’m so HAPPY for you : félicitations :-)

You are such an inspiration for me, as I try to run as often as possible to be healthier and stronger. As you are, I’m pretty sure that exercising – moderately-during pregnancy is a good thing for a SUPER baby!
I’m sure you & Billy will have the cutest baby!!

Angela

You are adorable. When I was pregnant with my sweet son, I was slightly terrified to exercise, but I did walk a lot and I did a little cardio every day. I was so careful though! FYI, he is now a beautiful almost two year old. And the smartest kid I’ve ever known :)
Congrats!

Veronika

I just started reading your blog and am SO glad I found it! I’m 22 weeks pregnant and am still running 4-5 days a week. I’ve had a very easy pregnancy so far and am even running a half marathon next weekend. Congratulations on your pregnancy and I’m looking forward to your updates!

Hey Veronika!! Thank you so much for commenting and CONGRATS…22 weeks pregnant, that is awesome. I am so happy you are still running away and have a blast at your 1/2 marathon, please let me know how it goes!

Aww.. what a cute little bumpy-bump! I’ve never been pregnant and it scares the crap out of me, lol.. But I think its super important to keep exercising- it really just makes sense.. and it supposedly makes birth and getting back in shape afterwards easier (again what the heck do I know?!) Your going to be an awesome Mom!

Anna

I ran into my seventh month….then, I just had to pee too often to make it fun. I switched to the eliptical and after my son was born, if I strapped him into a baby Bjorn and jumped on the eliptical, he would fall fast asleep.

My last couple of long runs have been challenging because I had to run them on the treadmill.

Ingrid

I’ve been following your blog for a little while now, and I’m so excited to find out that you’re pregnant and due the day before me! I am really looking forward to reading about how you keep up your running and exercising, and the confirmation that it’s safe and healthy for both baby and mom. I struggled with infertility and had to lay off the running for 4 weeks in the beginning, but got the go-ahead to start back up after we saw the heartbeat. So of course I’ve been a little paranoid about pushing myself too hard and harming the baby, so I’m so excited that I’ll have you as a role model to help calm my fears. I’ve kept up the running so far and did a half-marathon on Sunday (though my 2:23 pales in comparison to your speedy time!) and am pretty proud of myself :-). Congratulations and I look forward to reading in the months to come!

INGRID!! Thank you so much for commenting and CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU!!! One day apart, that is so exciting and you better keep me updated!! Congrats on your half-marathon!! Hey, remember mine was over two weeks ago and had a lot of downhill…you are a rockstar. Look at us running half marathons while pregnant, we rock:) Have a great day!

I kept running as soon as I found out I was pregnant until 30 weeks. It got too hard after that point! I found it so fun to run races while pregnant and I even had one guy scream to a friend at the finish line “don’t let the pregnant lady beat you”. Hahaha, I totally did :). Now at 35 weeks, I am finding swimming the most comfortable and fun. I still love going about a mile each day and I forget I’m pregnant and heavy in the water. All of the 2nd trimester I did barre classes and LOVED THOSE! Hope you find some good exercises for the two of you :)

Laura

Aw you look adorable! at 16 weeks I was a bloated mess, I think I’d gained 10lbs already! I loved when my “bump” came in at about 20 weeks and I didn’t just look like a chunkster anymore haha!

I ran a little early on, but i had some foot issues going into pregnancy and the whole first tri I was so exhausted and nauseous i could barely get through the work day. Once I felt good again, I returned to the gym but not running. Elliptical, weights, spin bike, and swimming. And walking, I have been walking 3-5 miles a day for the most part. Now that I’m gigantic I’m finding stuff to be a lot harder, but I’m still walking and swimming is still good. (water = weightless feeling :) )

Ha…yep, I am in that awkward stage where people aren’t sure if I am just gaining weight or pregnant! Foot issues….booo! I think I am going to be like you and really enjoy swimming and feeling weightless again ha. Hope you are having an amazing day and keep me updated on how you are doing!

Look how cute you are!!! I’ve been looking for other pregnant runners/bloggers and it looks like you are due the week before I am. I’m due on August 31st and am just ending my 15th week, so I am 15 weeks 1 day or just starting my 16th week and am trying really hard to keep up a fitness routine during pregnancy. I think the health benefits of exercise DO make a difference to the baby!

Looking forward to following along your on journey!

Jade

I had planned on running through my pregnancy but at 15weeks got put on bedrest for the rest of the pregnancy! Blah!! That did not help with my love for food, LOL! I was way too excited to run again, I had to work off all 50lbs I gained from sitting around for 6mths! Now I have a 2yr old that still runs with me every day! Those 6mths were nothing to everyday that I get to spend with my lil Miss B!

I love this post! As a running mama-to-be, I agree with everything you are saying, especially how much more you are enjoying your workouts now. I feel the same way. I honestly thought that it would be kind of a drag–not getting to do all the things you want to at the same intensity for these 10 months–but I am enjoying it so much. I always feel good about sweating it out for me and baby and I see this time as a great chance for my body to prove what it’s capable of. I think it’s all about your attitude–instead of focusing on what I can’t do or can’t eat, I am trying to be grateful for all of the things I CAN and GET to do! What a blessing.

Linda

OMG! I am just catching up on my blog reading and was soooo excited to see your announcement! You and Billy are going to be amazing parents, I can tell by how much you love your nieces and nephews. You look absolutely beautiful and that baby is going to be adorable. Congratulations!!

Lindsey

I couldn’t be more happy for you guys :) It’s funny how I’ve never met you but b/c of your blog feel like you could be one of my besties. I am loving reading about your thoughts on exercise (specifically running) and pregnancy. I was told by my OB that I was to not run after 20 weeks. I’m at 33 weeks now and ran a few miles yesterday. I have been so nervous throughout my entire pregnancy though b/c of what she had told me about no running. I couldn’t understand it since I was a hardcore running before getting pregnant. I can’t wait to see how your running progresses with your pregnancy. It’s so fun having healthy living bloggers get pregnant!

I will continue to read and love your blog even more so that we have this whole pregnancy thing in common now. Best of wishes to you and Billy!

Kattrina

I always dreamed of being a preggo runner but then when I ended up getting pregnant the doctor said no running. Since I had had previous pregnancy issues I decided it wasn’t the safest thing to do. So now I just walk. And it’s sad when I see people running, especially pregnant people running. I can’t wait to get back out there. However, since the health of the baby is what matters most I decided I could give up running for a short period of time.

I’m so happy you haven’t had any running problems and can keep it up. I’m excited to follow your pregnancy. You look so great and happy!

Annette

I have been reading your blog for several months, and I am SO excited that you have this new adventure to share with all of us! Even though you kept telling your Mom in your blog posts, that sorry, she wasn’t getting any grandkids from you anytime soon! lol

Adorable. You are going to be the cute pregnant girl that only looks prego from the side! I know you are reaching so many more readers through this Janae–not that that was the intent, but you are a positive role model for active mommies-to-be everywhere. Hugs!

I love this post (and the new section!) This is something I really believe- being healthy and fit during pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for both yourself and the baby. I plan to keep running lots when I am pregnant!

I also LOVE how candid and honest you are on the blog. I love that you say the things that people wonder about but many bloggers may not share. In a weird way, I’m loving these posts because I want kids in the next year or 2 and you make it seem so much less scary and unknown.

Jill

I just discovered your blog today through Run Eat Repeat. :-) I am the proud mama of a 16 month old and I ran for pretty much my entire pregnancy. I slowed down a little at first because I had suffered a miscarriage previous to this pregnancy and was still beating myself up a little as I had run a half marathon before I knew about the pregnancy. I knew that my choice to keep exercising through my pregnancy was a little confusing to some but it made me feel good and 6 weeks after my daughter was born, I was back to my pre-pregnancy weight. I have since run a marathon and 6 half marathons since her birth. It’s tricky finding the time but it’s one of the only things I do for myself these days so I make it a priority! Best of luck to you during your pregnancy!! Thanks for taking your readers along for the ride!

JILL!! Thank you so so much for commenting and I am glad you found me. You are my inspiration!! 1 marathon and 6 halves within 16 weeks?!? WOW, you are incredible! I am going to need all of the advice I can get from you!

Jill

Oh, no, no, no…..16 months, not 16 weeks. I WISH it was that impressive! Well, actually I probably don’t!! Those first 4 months are a bit of an adjustment period! I didn’t even start running again until about 6 weeks after she was born. I thought I’d be right back to it but the healing took longer than I expected and that was the hardest part! Next time around I’ll just enjoy that time and know that I will get back on the running horse eventually!! I find my motivation is different and maybe you will too. While I still love to run, in some ways, I just want to get it over with so I can go back to spending time with my daughter!

Oops…I totally meant to write 16 months, my bad!! No seriously 16 months is SO impressive, that is incredible. I have heard the healing does take more time and to just hold off until I am ready! Thanks for letting me know that it is important to spend time with the baby and eventually get back to running, have a great day!

Kay

Tiare

i am sure that someone has already said this, but everyone’s pregnancies are different. i say…..if you can workout DO IT! your recovery will be so much better. your body will thank you for it.
i ran up until week 38….baby came at 41.5 weeks! ran a marathon less than 8 months after she was born. it may be totally different with the next one….. one thing that totally helped was a maternity belly support band. that, and even if i was super tired i’d get up and do SOMETHING!
i think you are already in great shape and you make exercise a priority, so you’ll be fine!
KEEP IT UP GIRL!
P.S. CONGRATS! you’ve got the cutest little bump. Ever.

Tiare

ALSO….as soon as you can, get the baby in the jogger. the younger the better. once did 12 miles and the baby didn’t make a peep!!!…probably due to the fact that she was in it going for walks at 4 weeks. she’s adjusted well and usually just falls asleep.

New here! Hopped over from FitnessMagazine.
Congrats on your upcoming new one! Kids are a blast.
I have 2.
And I’m a new (2010) runner.
With my first pregnancy I was severely overweight and didn’t move off the couch unless it was for ice cream.
After I had my first son in 2009 I lost over 60 lbs. and found a passion for running.
Then I got knocked up again. Such is life of a woman! :)
All throughout my pregnancy I continued to workout just as I had pre-baby.
I still did weight training, zumba, cardio and strength training, and I still ran.
Toward the end of my pregnancy (about 34 weeks on) I found it nearly impossible to run for distance anymore.
So I started doing more interval running while pushing my 2 year old in the jogging stroller.
Talk about a workout!
Anyway, I am ALL FOR working out while pregnant.
It will MOST DEFINITELY help you sleep better. I KNEW if I didn’t get a workout in that I was going to sleep terribly that night, so that always kept me motivated!
Now, do I think working out while pregnant will help the pounds post-baby melt off quicker? Eh. TBD.
I am 4 months postpartum now and JUST reached my pre-pregnancy weight yesterday. And I’ve been busting my ass since 4 weeks post.
So, who knows.
I personally have to work really hard to see any change in the weight dept.

I say do what you are comfortable with, and modify what you are not!
Congrats and I’ll be following along now!

WOW!! Thank you so so much for your comment, I am so glad you found me. You lost 60 lbs…you are incredible! That interval workout sounds CRAZY hard and I have noticed it really does help me to sleep! Congrats on getting to your pre-pregnancy weight, you are incredible. Thanks so much, I really appreciate your advice!

i have definitely noticed being out of breath quicker…its weird isnt it? its kind of annoying sometimes but i just slow down or walk since i dont want to be completely out of breath. boston’s so soon so im ready to be done with these super long runs and just go on runs for fun! im hoping after the marathon to get back to weight training and yoga…or whatever i feel like!! :)

I’m pregnant, and decided to go back through some of your pregnancy posts, and this one made me smile all the way through!!! :) I just kept nodding my head after each thing you said: it’s all so true! Especially the confidence part and feeling good about myself! Thanks for writing this, it’s really encouraging me to continue to work out throughout my pregnancy!!